Go nuts, folks

Alfonso Soriano.  Eight years.  $135 million.  Chicago Cubs.   Rosenthal has the scoop, though he doesn't explicitly say that the Cubs are going to give him that money, just that that's what he's after.

As a Brewers fan, I'm thrilled that Hendry is blowing his wad on Sori.  Could be a great Cubs offense for a couple of years, but that can't leave a whole lot to patch other holes.

UPDATE: It's a little more official, and a little more expensive.

By Jeff Sackmann

Comments

[Phils07]

That is crazy money and too long for Soriano. He will be 39 at the end of that contract. You guys can have him. It will be interesting to see what Gillick's plan B will be now. Burrell is looking like he will be in LF in 2007.

[greenbaydude1232]

If you knew the salary numbers, you would realize that the only problem with this deal is the years. Other than that we should still be able to afford pitchers, this year atleast. It leaves us with about 17 million to use on 2 pitchers. Which could be 12 mil on a top pitcher and 5 mil on a pitcher we get from cle or another trade.

[usctrojans31]

Just when I am convinced that Gillick is the worst gm in baseball, Hendry pulls this one out.

Thank you.

[jbgindy]

I'm not sure how I feel about this. Ecstatic to get Soriano, but an 8 year deal is ridiculous.

[start_wearing_purple]

I'm not sure which is more insane... the price tag or length of time. I will LAUGH if hendry threw in a full no trade clause on top of it.

[Teetz]

Hey....it's not my money...looks like the Cubs were serious about raising payroll.

[feelthebyrne]

Damnit he should have come out west to anaheim, but at least we dont have to deal with him for all thoses years

[Phils07]

thank you Hendry. I was against Soriano coming to Philly from the start. That is a rediculous contract.

[Paul AKA twinsfan]

Well the good news for cubs fans is that it's only money the bad news it's a lot of money but in that ballpark Sori might have a chance at 50 hrs if he stays movitvated like his was this year I doubt that though.

[Gov Arnold]

8 years is insane. This is what happens when a GM is desparate to keep his job. The contract will be okay for 3 or 4 years and then an albatross to the next GM after Hendry's fired.

[Kramerica Industries]

AS a red sox fan I jst saw Manny's value sky rocket and now the ANgels probally ahve to make a trade

[bcaine]

WOW!!! Thats awesome , but the Cubs still need at least 2 more good starters. Hopefully the Cubs will have some money left for Zambrano, who by the way can become a free agent next year. YAAAAAAYA GO CUBBIES!!!

[greenbaydude1232]

I like the deal...I don't understand why everyone is so upset. If it had been 17 mil a year for 6 years it would have been perfect...but remember this is what sori wants...not neccesarily what he will get, if you read the article. My guess is it ends up being 7 years 17 mil with a mutual option year.

[buddha]

I certaily think the length of this contract is a bit much. I think if this does indeed go through I'd look into Wolf or Suppan for a pitcher. Wolf will be 2 years removed from surgery and he got better as 2006 went on. Suppan is a reliable starter who is best suited in the 3rd or 4th slot. In addition to the Sp they filled their backup catcher need in Blanco. I think if Soriano comes in and does play put him in left and get a CF. I like Matthews but he performed in a contract year. I 'm not convinced yet. May have to be overpaid to get his services. Otherwise you could go cheap with Dave Roberts. I guess Westbrook from Cle could be an option as Cle is willing to trade their pitchers.

[pedroia2007]

This comes close to the contract that was given to Manny Ramirez. Soriano is no Manny, Cubs. It will boost your offense but he's not well rounded enough to be given this type of deal

[feelthebyrne]

I hope manny is packing his bags cuz hell be an angel pretty soon.

[GoBoSox420]

Manny to the angels seems likely? I know Santana would be involved, but who else?

Do you think the sox could then pick up andru jones?

[Why am I a Cubfan?]

You guys make it seem like the Cubs will be "stuck" with Sorriano for all 8 years. Don't forget....there are always teams out there willing to trade prospects or other players for guys in their mid-30's....especially guys like Sorriano. I don't care about the years or the money. The Trib said they were hell bent on winning now and they are proving it for once in my lifetime. Good for them and good for us Cub fans! Now let's go sign a few pitchers (or trade for one)!

Great day for all Cub fans! Now we just need to turn it into wins on the field! Also, this by no means has anything to do with Hendry as the Trib had to sign off on it. And if they are willing to "blow their wad" on Sorriano they most certainly are willing to spend more money on pitching. YES!!!!!!!!

[cubsfan1654]

It's Official, The Cubs signed Soriano, http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2668465

[jmonahan7]

this brings the term "overspending" to a whole other level. And, now the Red Sox are going to have to shell out more money than they should for JD Drew.

[Phils07]

Hey Cub Fan..congrats on the deal. Hope it works out for you guys. Between the Phils and Cubs, we've seen enough misery.

[feelthebyrne]

Im thinkin santana or saunders and shields and cabrera for either manny or andruw jones will be likely

[feelthebyrne]

Im thinkin santana or saunders and shields and cabrera for either manny or andruw jones will be likely

[TalkingCubs]

Noone knows any specifics on the contract, so quit getting your panties in a bunch.

No way Hendry makes this move if it meant they weren't going to be able to sign pitching help. Now lets just hope that doesn't mean Jason Marquis.

[GoBoSox420]

"Im thinkin santana or saunders and shields and cabrera for either manny or andruw jones will be likely"

I'd gladly take Santana+Shields, Im hoping for another pitching prospect we could pair with one of our own and coco to send to the brave for Andru

[KeepinYouHonest]

Blah. Blah. Blah. I love it when everyone jocks the guy when he's a free agent. Everyone wants him. Then, when the Cubs signed Soriano, all of a sudden it was a terrible deal. What the hell do you care what the pricetag is, you're not paying it. The Cubs can afford to go well over $120M and have no problem. The years, who cares? Do you realize that middle of the road pitchers are getting $10M per year? So you're telling me a guy who hits .280, averages 35 HR's and almost 100 RBI's, was a 40-40 guy last year ... AND ... had 22 outfield assists (6 more than the next guy) isn't worth $17M? C'mon! Look in the mirror and don't lie to yourself. You'd love to have him. I just got off the phone with my cousin and he poo-poo'd the signing. Sox fan. Typical. If the southsiders gobbled him up, he'd be loving it. I can't wait to see Soriano, Ramirez and Lee - I'm not saying the Cubs will be unstoppable, but it will sure be fun. Now they take the $15-20M they have left and go after starting pitching - or trade some relievers to Cleveland for Jake Westbrook and sign a free agent. Either way, I'm happy. It sure as hell beats last offseason, don't you think?

[NYs Maine Man]

Damn son! Let the money fly! Thats a lot of loot for 175 K's/year.

[diamondjaxx]

i just tried to post this you beat me to it :) but as a cub fan i like the move but we still need pitching.

[feelthebyrne]

Haha soriano would have been better off with anaheim for 6 yrs 90 mil but w.e. id rather have jones

[eeleye99]

Sorry cubs fans. The only reason why this won't hurt you guys this much is because your a big market team....But Soriano will be 39 when this ends...its just ridiculous. Soriano is extremely overrated. All he did this year was hit 45 homeruns. The whole 40-40 thing is a cool stat, but stolen bases are overrated. He is a decent player, but he could well level off as soon as next year and hit an uninspiring 30 homeruns.....

[greenbaydude1232]

"Haha soriano would have been better off with anaheim for 6 yrs 90 mil but w.e. id rather have jones"

HAHA someones a bit bitter. You'd rather have jones? What a joke.

[TalkingCubs]

Yeah, that's like saying you'd rather have Aaron Rodgers over Brett Favre....Sorry GBdude..Had to.

[greenbaydude1232]

well I'd love to see something like this happen...

Now that Sori is a cub (reportedly) the cubs have between 15-20 mil to spend. They sign an elite SP (try schmidt at 13), spend 2 mil to get dave roberts to play center and trade jones/eyre (don't need him with cotts recently aquired) and cedeno for westbrook. The salary in that deal would equal out, so that'd be about another 15 mil spend. Think about the lineup and rotation:

Lineup:
1. Roberts
2. Soriano
3. Lee
4. Ramirez
5. Barrett
6. Murton
7. De Rosa
8. Izturis
9. Pitcher

Rotation:
1. Zamrbano
2. Schmidt
3. Westbrook
4. Hill
5. Marshall/Miller/Prior

That looks pretty solid to me and we don't lose much to get westbrook. What do you all think? I think in the end soriano plays center but I'm not sure what we have to offer CLE besides a rp/cedeno or theriot/prospects??? then.

We'll see what Hendry is thinking. Let me know what you're thinking.

[feelthebyrne]

Seriously i do. Soriano would have been better 4 us cuz then we wouldnt have to give an arm n a leg to get manny or jones. Jones is younger and a wayy better fielder than soriano. Plus he is a more consistant power threat

[greenbaydude1232]

Soriano can bat anywhere in the lineup. Any spot 1-5 seems arguable to me.

BTW I was saying jones and eyre not jones or eyre in the above post.

[Brian]

As an Astros fan, I dont know what to think of this deal. It scares me because now the Cubs a dangerous lineup, but then again it reminds me of the Phillies. A ton of offense but no pitching. You cant count on Prior and Wood staying healthy. Plus, I dont understand giving Soriano this long of a contract and this much money. He is a defensive liability and strikes out alot.

[greenbaydude1232]

Brian, clearly Hendry wouldn't have made this deal if he didn't think there were pitching options out there. The cubs still have between 15-20 mil to burn and I don't see the cubs limiting themselves to 120 million if they think another 5 million will give them a serious chance at winning the central.

[Rayman]

GBdude, you're out of your mind. There is no way in hell Mark Shapiro accepts Eyre and Cedeno for Westbrook. I'm laughing right now.

[Kyle]

The money is not the issue here but it will be interesting to see the details of the contract which is the issue. Hopefully Hendry has a couple things already in the works for pitching. Not to mention that we still need a centerfielder. Soriano is good but it will be a big change to put him in center. I like the post that was listed above in getting Roberts also but that will take some wheeling to get accomplished. Plus teams know now that the cubs will have to make some kind of trade move to get everything done.
Contract - Hopefully details describe the 8 years
Money involved - It was what Soriano was going to get anyways
Soriano batting second in the cubs line up - WOW that will be a tuff order to face
Leadoff
Soriano
Lee
Rameriz
Barret

Lets see teams pitch around that line up.

[gallow737]

"The whole 40-40 thing is a cool stat, but stolen bases are overrated."

That's a ridiculous thing to say, I'm sure Soriano's 119 runs scored had nothing to do with the fact he'd turn a single into a double and score on a base hit.

[greenbaydude1232]

If you had read the post, it said jones, eyre and cedeno. I'm not stupid. The Indians have a need for a backup !defensive! SS and are looking for bullpen help. I understand the Indians aren't exactly in the market for an OF but Jones is certainly a better option that Choo, granted he plays on the wrong side of the field. And with the market the way it is he will come cheaper and better than people are running right now. Alou for 8 million?!?

[greenbaydude1232]

In addition, the reason I chose roberts above was because we need someone to lead off who can steal some bases, otherwise batting soriano behind him will only slow soriano down. Imagine the idea of roberts getting a single, followed by a soriano HR, 2 runs right there. OR, roberts gets a single and soriano gets a double (had over 40 of those as well) now we have a guy on 2nd and 3rd with no outs. OR, roberts gets a single and soriano gets a single and we implement a double steal because both have the speed to do it! OR roberts doubles and sori can drive him in on a single. It is very promising having them at the top of the lineup, not to mention the power of a fully recovered lee and ramirez batting behind them.

[GordoJ52]

The score, here in Chicago, is reporting that the deal is for 6/mid 90's guaranteed. The 7th and 8th year are options, not disclosed on who's options they are and after the 5th year his no trade clause is no more. This is an excellent signing by Jim Hendry, not as desperate as ESPN is report. I love it. Now let's go get two pitchers and a center fielder. Anyone scared to see the guy in center? I want a center fielder and put him in left.

Jeff

[MT]

what an incompetent organization

[new here]

In his case a lot of the stolen bases were overrated because a) he was running no matter what the situation just to get to 40 and b) clearly they didn't translate into a whole lot of wins for his team

[greenbaydude1232]

"what an incompetent organization"

If the yankees or redsox had signed him for this money, no one would be saying that. The cubs are showing that they are sick of losing and that they want to win. That is in no way incompetent, they have the money because of the great fanbase, so why not spend it? Jeff, I am not totally scared to see Soriano in center but I would hate to seem him leadoff, and at this time, he is the only real canidate. His 40 HR are a waste if he leads off, thats why I think we need a leadoff CF and to bat him 2nd. It occured to me that if Pierre wanted to win now, he is better suited in chicago then SF, however, knowing Pierre, I think he will take whoever offers him the most money - and that wont be the cubs.

Again, I'd like to know what everyone thinks of my ideas as I understand I am just bouncing them all out there.

[start_wearing_purple]

Alright, I promised myself not to rant but... I've failed.

eeleye... What do you mean stolen bases are overrated??? Runner on first means an increased chance of a double play and normally a double or two singles to drive in a runner. Now the same scenario, guy steals second. A hit scores him, a groundball to the right brings him over to third for a sac fly, no more double play threat, plus the middle infielders have to be worried about holding someone on the bag. Stolen bases are NOT overrated.

Other than that, yes it's kinda silly to give that long of a contract to someone of Soriano's age.

[EM3]

1) 8 years? Soriano fleeced them. He is not that good. And he is certainly no Manny.

2) This is just phenomenal news for the Red Sox. First, the Cubs were their prime competition for JD Drew. And now, there's no way Chicago will pursue Drew. Secondly, Manny Ramirez' market just increased tremendously. Sure, LAA could go after Drew. But he's not their answer. They are clearly going to go after Manny. And now a bidding war will ensue between them and Texas, and maybe even the Dodgers. I would hate to lose Manny, but at least it looks like the Sox are going to be able to fleece someone for him. If we could get Santana, Shields and Aybar/Wood from LA, that would be phenomenal. And this Soriano deal just made that possible.

[GordoJ52]

If you can go get Pierre, Roberts, or someone else go get them. If you go to Cubs.com and listed to the interview of Piniella at the GM Meetings, he said that they're going after 3 pitchers. I think his exact words are, 2 would be great, but three's what we're after. They're payroll is going to go to 120+. Enjoy cubs fans, it's gettin exciting.

Jeff

[jballgame]

Now everyone's an expert. We can't predict alot of things:

1. What the Cubs payroll will be
2. What the contract for Soriano looks like
3. What teams will want to trade for Soriano when he's 36

Everyone sounds like sour f'in grapes. Hendry spent what he had to in order to sign Soriano-bottom line.

If the 6/mid 90s is true-THAT'S AWESOME with two option years. That makes it a GREAT signing.

I'd almost like to see Soriano at 2B (he might be happier) and then sign Roberts.

DeRosa can platoon wherever we want him and come off the bench.

Bottom line-the Cubs have alot of options and some potential players to trade (Cedeno/Theriot/Bullpen).

Let's see what they do for SP. I'd say Meche/Padilla are the likely options, but we'll see.

[start_wearing_purple]

greenbay, you're missing the point. I have no problem with a power hitter who has speed and has turned himself into a decent outfielder getting 18 a year. The issue is the length and his age. If Soriano was 28, I'd be applauding it. But halfway through the contract the cubs are likely going to see diminishing returns.

[Phils07]

If the deal is really 6 years with club options for the 7th and 8th year and a reasonable buyout, I'd say this is not a bad signing for the Cubs.

[Why am I a Cubfan?]

I'm sorry, but since when is 22 outfield assists a liability? After what we saw from Pierre lasy year, Sorriano will be a HUGE improvement defensively. He may not have been a great middle infielder, but he proved last year that he has what it takes to be an above average outfielder.

And I love all these posters saying he isn't "worth" the money. Who is "worth' the money?! All athletes are extremely overpaid for what they do. The idiots getting paid 1 million to sit on the bench all season are ridiculously overpaid. But the fact remains, Sorriano is now a Cub and that is a step in the right direction for once. Pitching is next up on our shopping list!!

[halo27]

well the cubs need more pitching so this could benfit both teams

santanna
figgins/O. cabrera
escobar

for

zambrano
+(good)prospect

figgins could be your leadoff CF and hes cheap santanna is cheap so is escobar all reliable starters
and zambrano will be a FA next year so this would be a good deal for you

you get 2 very good pitchers for one that might be gone after this year

and you guys might still have money to spend

[halo27]

then the angels would need to go after roberts for CF or trade for wells,andruw,crawford

[Blackflame88]

Hmmm... I didn't expect this. I thought he might sign with the Angels for a long-term deal or maybe with some other team, but not the Cubs.

I am a fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, and I must say that it's such a shame that the Free Agent market is so limited this year because players are being overpaid and it'll be tough for middle to lower-market teams to get some of these players. If Soriano does indeed sign with the Cubs, it might mean a more competitive Central Division between the Cards, Astros, and Cubs. Things don't look good on paper right now as far as how this offseason might shape up for the World Series Champions, but maybe pitching coach Dave Duncan can work some of his magic once more in '07.

Well, I didn't think Soriano would come to St. Louis anyways, but I didn't think Chicago would pick him up (that is, if it really happens).

[greenbaydude1232]

start_wearing_purple...I addresed similar concerns in an earlier post of mine. I think 6 years for 17 million a year would have been optimal. I think 8 is a little much, but honestly I don't like Hendry but he is finally being agressive, so I'd rather be over agressive than underagressive. And while I have no idea, and do not pretend to be an expert, i think the contract will look something like this:

6 Years, 18 million a year
1 Year mutual option, 1 year team option. With deffered payment til about 2030 at about 2 mil defered every year starting in 2010. That would be my guess. Again, its just a prediction and I'm not expert so we'll see. Oh and by the way I think the no trade clause would only be for about the 1st half of the contract.

Thanks, keep it coming.

[jskohl]

The years may be a bit high, but the cubs are showing some commitment.As a Dodger fan, living in the second largest market in the country, I'm wondering why Ned Colletti hasn't done anything but sign Nomar. We finally rid ourselves of Just Disabled Drew, and nothing has been done to replace him. Good for the Cubbies!!

[halo27]

actually scratch my idea it wouldnt be good for the angels on second thought

[supercapo]

I like this deal for the Cubs, especially since it is actually a 6 year deal with 2 option years thrown in. The Cubs needed another bat, they needed a lead-off hitter (although I would prefer seeing Sorinao's production a little lower in the order.) They need an outfielder that has an arm. They have all of this in Soriano. If you leave Soriano in the lead-off spot and put Murton in the 2 hole, since he has a great eye and can hit for average, that would be an impressive 1-2 to put ahead of Lee and Ramirez.

[greenbaydude1232]

halo27...the cubs are not going to trade zambrano. It's that easy. They need good pitchers in a pitching FA filled with mediocracy. Zambrano is going to stay put especially since money is a non-issue at this point. I see the pay roll landing somewhere between 115 million and 130 million for the cubs next season. They are dedicated to Zambrano and if the Cubs become a contender he will be resigned fairly easily.

[greenbaydude1232]

halo27...I see you revoked your statement. It wasn't really a good idea for either team, I see your point.

[greenbaydude1232]

mlb.com is reporting it as well now. It looks like its cemented all but a physical. I am eager to see the exact contract.

http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061119&content_id=1743450&vkey=news_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc

[EM3]

Don't forget...the cubs lost a pretty high 1st round pick here as well. What pick did they have? It had to be between 5 and 10, right? This might have worked out well for Bowden.

[halo27]

wow i dont like the angels options at this point

[Merloni's Salami]

BWAHAHAHAHA! Hendry = worst GM ever.

The Cubs still need a ROTATION.

As for Manny being traded to Disney...F That. Unless they can swing A jones out of it. No thanks on some Ervin Santana swap.

[supercapo]

I think that the Cubs first round pick was in the top 5, as they finished with the worst record in the N.L. I believe I heard it was number 3.

[greenbaydude1232]

Good Point, I hadn't thought about that. What pick would they have to give up to sign Schmidt? Would it be their 2nd round or 2nd and 4th rounds? something like that? They are already short on prospects but I still like the move. The draft pick is insignificant compared to what the Nationals gave up to get a one year player.

[bobo]

The length, and money involved in the deal is fit for an absolute top player - top 5-10. Sadly Soriano isn't that - and really isn't even close.

Then again, maybe with the way the market is, $17M is the new $8M.

[greenbaydude1232]

Merloni's Salami:

What people don't seem to understand is the cubs are not done making moves. They have plenty of money to throw around. Another 20 million about. That is enough for A solid #2 guy, and a CF! I think they will end up getting a #3 or #4 starter via trade. Possibly CLE or NYM?

[integr96]

i like this move very much. a deal that should be considered is sending barrett and either marmol or guzman to the padres for linebrink then send linebrink, cotts, and cedeno to the indians for cliff lee. these enables a satarting rotation of
1 c zambrano
2 c lee
3 g meche
4 r hill
5 w miller / m prior
then i think the cubs should go ahead and bring up felix pie to play center. this would be great for him as it would allow him to be surrounded by veterans in soriano and jones.

[SBE]

Just so we're clear, the Cubs don't lose their 1st round pick for signing Sori.

I believe that rule only applies if your 1st round pick isn't in the top half of the draft (i.e. the top 15 picks).

[Droptop]

feelthebyrne - As an A's fan...PLEASE trade Scott Shields. That guy should be the LAST person an Angel fan should want traded out of the bullpen, yes, even over K-Rod. I don't care who it would help bring, you trade two other guys instead of Shields.

No Angel SS in the minors is thought of as being ML ready(by Stoneman or many scouts), so trading Cabrera(let alone and Shields) would just choke the team. This is a situation where you have to sign FA's or trade minor league talent(which Stoneman HATES doing).

"Manny pack your bags" When has Stoneman EVER pulled the trigger on a big trade like that? He's just talking big so far this year, we'll see if it happens.....(it didn't at the deadline last year...)

[SBE]

Huh? Erick Aybar is as MLB-ready as he ever will be, and Brandon Wood could be ready by this coming year.

[greenbaydude1232]

integr96...I think that is a terrible deal for the cubs sending away barrett. I also do not like the idea of bringing up Pie. He is not really ready and this leaves murton without a spot in the lineup. If Murton doesn't get a spot he will be traded most likely. Also, the cubs don't need to aquire a relief pitcher in order to trade one. They just aquired Cotts and I don't think a trade fopr linebrink really makes sense here.

Possibly: Murton, Eyre, Cedeno for Lee?

[greenbaydude1232]

SBE...If thats true its a good point. Could you find a website that has that rule listed on it?

[Kyle]

Theriot and Moore are the prospects of the future and then it will probably be eric patterson. Why does everyone keep saying Felix Pie??? He has not shown that he is ready for the big leagues. I am a fan of getting a center fielder and trading Pie. All you ever hear about is Felix Pie and all you see is Pie in the minors just doing okay or being in a slump or on the DL. He is good when he is on but remember that he has been the talk for 4 years and still has not made it.
We just got Soriano and we have 17-20 million to play with. Ithink that Barret should not even be in the talks of a trade. His bat really makes this a strong line up. As far as the rookie pitchers and a lefty from the pin and Jones.... Let them be traded for some one that we can use.

[supercapo]

I just hope now that Soriano has made it a more formidable offense, that we don't get stuck with bottom of the barrell pitching in spots 2-5. I like Big Z and Hill, but everything else right now looks like one huge hole.

[SBE]

Greenbay - don't have a website but i'm 100% positive that's the rule. The Cubs will keep their #4 overall pick no matter who they sign this offseason.

[supercapo]

SBE, I am glad to hear that.

[greenbaydude1232]

Kyle:

I agree with most of what you have said, however, I have not lost as much faith in Pie as you have. You also forgot to mention Donald Veal in your prospect list, despite the fact he is a couple years away. IMO the cubs top prospects are:

1. Pie
2. Patterson
3. Veal

Theriot is no longer a prospect. Moore is probably 4 or 5 on my list. I am not against trading Pie for a SP, however. I also strongly agree that Barett should not be moved.

[eeleye99]

Hey yeah what about a 3-way trade somehow, with Manny and Andruw Jones and Ervin Santana and some other top pick. How would that work out. I'm guessing:

Red Sox get Andruw Jones
Angels get Manny Ramirez
Braves (who like youth) get Ervin Santana and and prospect.

[jballgame]

Remember guys-isn't Pie only like 22 yrs old? Give him another year or two.

[Kramerica Industries]

Cat to the Rangers

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/6188778

[jballgame]

Why the HELL would the Braves trade Jones?

[eeleye99]

Cause he's gone next year.

[greenbaydude1232]

Nice call SBE. Thats a relief.

http://soxprospects.wikispaces.com/MLB+Compensatory+Draft+Pick+System

"One special rule that applies is that picks 1-15 overall are unmovable. They cannot be forfeited as compensation. In the event that a team signs a Type A or B free agent but has a pick between 1 and 15 in the upcoming draft then the team forfeits its 2nd round pick instead of its protected 1st. Similarly, if a team signs more than one Type A or B free agent then the team forfeits its 1st round pick first, its then its 2nd round pick, etc. to the player's former team according to the player's Elias Sports Bureau ranking. Draft picks cannot be exchanged other than according to these rules."

That would mean if Schmidt was signed the Cubs would forfeit their 3rd round pick for him, as they forfeited their 2nd round for soriano.

[start_wearing_purple]

Woah... rewind... the cubs didn't give up a draft pick? Wasn't that the only reason why Bowden didn't trade Soriano to begin with? Ok that does, Bowden is offically the biggest iddiot on the planet, he gets back his gold star from the kearns trade.

[greenbaydude1232]

The cubs gave up a 2nd round draft pick.

[Rayman]

Shame no one wants to trade Barrett. Linebrink, Cotts, and Cedeno for Lee doesn't sound that bad. And if we can't lock up Westbrook, I might do it for him as well.

[greenbaydude1232]

Barret batted over .300 last year. Any catcher that can bat over .300 is worth holding onto.

[Why am I a Cubfan?]

Terms of the contract have been reported inaccurately folks. Radio stations in Chicago are reporting that base deal is 6 years/$92 million. There are 2 mutual options and a ton of incentives. Nonthing has been confirmed by the Cubs yet though.

[greenbaydude1232]

Terms of the contract were reported as unknown. Nothing has been reported inacuratly. Most had assumed a year or two were option years.

[integr96]

i agree that barrett is a definite assett, but if he can bring a good starter in return than i think it is a pretty good deal for the cubs. there will still be a lot of offense without him. any thoughts on theriot playing short and patterson playing second base maybe next year?

[greenbaydude1232]

Izturis is a bigger asset then theriot to the cubs. And patterson isnt major league ready yet.

[supercapo]

I just read that it is possible the Cubs will move Jones to Center and put Soriano, especially with his arm, in right. We need a left-handed bat with some pop in the line-up, like Jones. I like the production that Jones gave us last year, but not sure I want to see him in center next year.

[greenbaydude1232]

supercapo:

where did u see that? I'm not sure I'd want him in center either.

[supercapo]

I read it at http://www.prosportsdaily.com/forums/showthread.php?t=65177&page=17
You have to scroll down to see it. It is attributed to Bruce Miles.

[TwoZero]

Not well rounded enough?...Soriano led mlb in outfield assists last year, he is the 40/40/40 club, he can bat anywhere in the order, and oh yeah, he is a 5 time all-star at 2nd base....hard to get more well rounded than that budda......8 years is a long time though

[greenbaydude1232]

supercapo:

I see that. I think our best bet is to sign a speedy CF to lead off (a la Dave Roberts - comes much cheaper than pierre -- although I'm not against bringing pierre back if the cubs are willing to raise the payroll another 5 million). In that case I kiss Jones goodbye and ship him off for a pitcher. I think we hold onto Pie because if we sign roberts will should be 2 years tops and then Pie will take over.

[cubsyear2007]

yeah you are just mad cause the cubs got him OHH DID YOU HEAR THE BOSTON REDSOX GOT BARRY BONDS

[supercapo]

I just read this on Hot Stove Cubbies "The Cubs have reported that they have offered a 3 year 45 million dollar contract to Drew which sources close to Scott Boras says he will accept.

A side note Barry Zito contacted Jim Hendry Personally to let him know that he would enjoy pitching at Wrigley field and for the Chicago Cubs."

I am taking both rumors with a grain of salt, but how big would that be if teh Cubs could sign either one or both of those guys?

[nickjs21]

"Possibly: Murton, Eyre, Cedeno for Lee?"

I'd do it. Or another RP instead of Cedeno. Those are interchangeable to me. The Indians have a hole in LF and Murton looks good.

[jballgame]

And that's why you're not the Cubs GM nickjs21.......STUPID! Lee is no better than the guys on the free agent market that we could sign w/o trading that much.

[nrmax88]

is this officially a done deal? or is it pending or whats goin on

[supercapo]

Soriano's signing is pending his passing a physical.

[nrmax88]

michael barrett should be traded cuz he punches like a girl lol. He cheapshotted pierzynski right in the face and pierzynski barely even moved

[jballgame]

supercapo-do you have a link for this ridiculousness about Drew and Zito?

[nickjs21]

"And that's why you're not the Cubs GM nickjs21.......STUPID! Lee is no better than the guys on the free agent market that we could sign w/o trading that much."

No, actually jballgame, I'm an Indians fan. So a stupid move by Hendry would benefit me. Hence, "I'd do it." If the Cubs want a Cleveland pitcher they SHOULD want Westbrook because of his dependability (15 wins per year, easy) and his groundball tendencies. As compared to Lee, who gives up the long ball.

[supercapo]

It is at http://cubsrumorsandnews.blogspot.com/

I am not saying I believe it, but it gives you something to think about.

[bsox21]

Wow!!

The Cubs have 2 of the top 10 hitters in baseball now in Sori and Lee.

Would be nice to have a lefty bat in there, but who cares....

Sori
Lee
Aramis

That's retarded....

[Dave]

The Cubbies should wait till Matt Cain develops some elbow problems, then trade Barrett for him. Seriously now, Sabean would do it. We'd probably have to make him throw in a minor leaguer, though.

[OPERATIONSHUTDOWN]

Big Z gonna get $150 mm... think about that cub fans.

[bsox21]

Big Z is worth it.

Long term, I'd take Big Z over Oswalt.

[OPERATIONSHUTDOWN]

Zambrano certainly projects as being more durable, but Roy got signed for 5/73 and Z will get like 7 or 8 at 20 mm per.

Just saying, overspending eventually catches up to you.

[cubsfan4ever]

Soriano
Murton
D.Lee
Ramirez
Barrett
Jones
DeRosa
Izturis

Killer line up. Show me a better order in the National League. Now with a quality pitcher or two with one of the better bullpens and look out.

For all of you saying too much, Soriano will get at least 170 hits, 35 doubles, and now that he will be playing 81 games a season in Wrigley, at least 30 home runs at Wrigley and 50 home runs overall. Defensively he led the league in outfield assists. The guy is equal to Beltran and deserves Beltran like money.

[bsox21]

Who are you to say this is overspending?

People have been crying about "oversending" baseball teams for years now.

When are you idiots going to realize that these players DESERVE this money, and that they wouldn't be getting it if the owners weren't making a LOT MORE.

In the end, we the fans decide how much thsee guys make, and we say these players are worth this money.....

Especially a young power pitcher like Zambrano who is as good as anyone out there and has shown incredible durability.

[OPERATIONSHUTDOWN]

Soriano's not close to Beltran in OBP, defense, situational hitting, or Sb%.

Beltran got that money as a 27 yr. old that dominated in the playoffs. Soriano got 1 more year and 17mm more as a 31 yr. old. He's not equal to Beltran and it's really not close.

[bsox21]

cubsfan4ever,

As a Mets fan, I would say you're about right.

I wouldn't say that Sori is as good as Beltran defensively YET, but that's mor because Sori learned to play OF at the major league level instead of playing throughout his career like Beltran.

No quesion Sori has the talent to become one of the best defensive OF in the league if he works hard.

I'm with you cubsfan....if I were a Cubs fan, I'd be ecstatic.

The only thing we disagree about is that Wrigley is a home run park.

Wrigley is actually a pretty tough place to hit, but so was Washington, and that didn't stop Sori from dominance.

[bsox21]

Just read the price on K Wood....

I'm anti-K Wood, but for 1.75 mil, you can't go wrong.

If they get 45+ innings out of him out of the pen, they make out for that price.

[gatling]

Dave, will you give up on the Cain for Barrett stuff? No one else here believes that is even the least bit possible. Quit being an idiot.

[greenbaydude1232]

Ok well I have no idea what the validity of the above rumor is (the zito and drew rumors)...but none the less I'm going to crunch some numbers:

C - Michael Barrett - $4.67 MM
C - Henry Blanco - $2.5MM
1B - Derrek Lee - $13MM
2B - Mark DeRosa - $4.33MM
SS - Cesar Izturis - $4.15MM
3B - Aramis Ramirez - $14MM
IF - Ryan Theriot - $0.38MM
LF - Matt Murton - $0.38MM
CF - J.D. Drew - $15MM
RF - Alfonso Soriano - 17MM
RF - Jacque Jones - $4MM
OF - Angel Pagan - $0.38MM

SP - Carlos Zambrano - $7.2MM
SP - Barry Zito - $14MM
SP - Rich Hill - $0.38MM
SP -
SP - Wade Miller - $1.5MM
SP - Mark Prior - $3.65MM
SP - Sean Marshall - $0.38MM

RP - Ryan Dempster - $5MM
RP - Bob Howry - $4MM
RP - Scott Eyre - $3.5MM
RP - Will Ohman - $0.61MM
RP - Mike Wuertz - $0.38MM
RP - Kerry Wood - $1.75MM
RP - Roberto Novova - $0.38MM
RP - Neal Cotts - $0.40 MM

Buyouts:

RP - Kerry Wood - $3MM

Injured players:

RP - Glendon Rusch - $3.25MM

All that added together is 130 MM and I think some of those players are in for raises that are not already notes. So I figure this adds up to about 140MM.

A note on the empty pitcher spot:
I figure a trade for a pitcher that will equal out in salary.

I've been hearing a figure in the range of 120 MM not 140 MM. So I figure this is really quite unreasonable, but you never know. If the tribune company is desperate enough to win, this is definately a team that could do that!

[cubs]

i was right

[PhillyRocks]

cubsfan4ever,

I would still say the Phillies lineup is better. Nothing has changed, Actually got better with a better offensive 3B. Until you beat it, its not better. With Soriano, it would have been that much better. Don't count out the Phillies getting somebody like Lee or Manny. Something will happen count on it.

[GordoJ52]

Was anyone listening to WGNRadio about an hour and a half ago. I called and asked for them to replay it, but Lou Piniella was on and said that Jim Hendry was far from done and he couldn't comment at this point, but Cubs fans should be real excited because he is and knows what is going on behind the scenes. He said Soriano will either fly in tonight or tomorrow for the physical and press conference.

Jeff

[bsox21]

Philly Rocks,

I'd go with the Cubs lineup + Sori over the Phils.

You have to factor in that the Phils play in a hitter's park and the Cubs play in a pitcher's park.

I'd take the Mets lineup + Alou over both.

[greenbaydude1232]

All this talk has gotten me thinking about exactly how high the cubs are willing to take their pay roll. The Cubs have an amazing fan base that would only grow if they actually put together a team that could win so I've got to believe the Tribune Co. Is going to put a ton of money into them. 120 MM seems reasonable to me. 140MM seems a little outrageous but if the cubs put together a payroll like the yankees or redsox they would dominate the central. Granted, the Tribune Co. doesn't have that kind of money, but its still fun to dream. I'm excited to see what new rumors emerge and if infact the soriano signing could make other high profile players (schmidt?!?) want to come to chicago to play in a great atmosphere and now have a chance to win?

[Phils07]

Let's not forget that the Phillies led the NL in runs scored last year. If they had the same rotation as they did for the last two months of the year over the whole season, they would have made the playoffs.

[greenbaydude1232]

Another thought I've had was jason jennings, as he appears available. I'm not sure what the cubs have to offer because the rockies don't really need OF. They could probably trade cedeno/theriot and bullpen help and minors. I think I like the idea of the cleveland trade better though.

[dave]

Concerning steals:

Here is a article from baseball prospectus that shows that if you do not have over a 75% success rate with stolen bases you cost your team runs.

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=2607

What they do is look at all 2003 and see, how many runs would you get on average with a runner on first and no outs. Ok now compare how many runs you would get when you have a runner or second with no outs vs. no runners on and one out. The two outcomes of a steal. There is a huge drop off between the number of expected runs in these two situations. Thus the base runner must steal at a very high rate (75% is what they caculuate) for it to be worth it.

Last year Soriano stole at a rate of about 70%.

Of course this averages over all situations. The article points out there are times when you would really want to and not want to steal. In close games when getting one run is importnat then it is steals become more valueable. In wide open games steals loss value.

Also it is better to steal in front of weak hitters because if you get out you do not loss as many expected runs than if you were hitting in front of good hitters. Also weak hitters often need the runner on second more than if you have all your powerful hitters coming up.

So if you really want Soriano to keep running bat him fifth rather than second. Then you could put Murton in the two hole.

[greenbaydude1232]

I'm not sure murton would work well in the 2 hole. I think he bats better at the bottom of the lineup where there is less pressure.

[bsox21]

Phils07,

Losing Abreu did not help their offense. That OBP was important.

The only reason it looked like it helped was becuz it put Howard in a place to see pitches to hit.

If you put the Mets lineup in that park, my money says they score more than the Phils.

It's a hitter's park. The park plays a huge factor in player/team stats. This should not be understated.

[OPERATIONSHUTDOWN]

Respect, Dave, good post. Soriano's combination of low SB% and traditionally low OBP make him a less than desirable leadoff guy. The problem with his K-rate is he's a less than desirable cleanup hitter. He can't be counted on to consistently drive in runs/advance runners. Soriano is an amazing athlete, but as a ball player he's an enigma.

[jballgame]

Colorado supposedly wants Wuertz + Pie. They like Hill, but Hendry won't trade Hill.

I'd like to see Pie work with G. Perry to see if he can become more patient-more walks, less Ks. That's about all he needs to be in the majors.

[bsox21]

You guys that say Sori is anythign but an incredible player are jst haters.

he can hit 1,000 HRs and u guys would find some stupid fucking stat to hate on him.

Go back to ur fucking hole and leave the baseball fans alone.

[Phils07]

bsox21,

The Phils distribution of runs scored was pretty even (home/away). They only scored 23 less runs on the road.

I agree that CBP is a hitters park, but there are many other teams playing in hitters parks as well. The Phils offense is pretty potent and I believe the original argument was that the Cubs now had a better offense not the Mets. If you want to compare the Mets/Phils, I will agree with you that the Mets offense is superior overall.

[SiddFinch]

Can't wait to see all the Soriano proejctions, considering how accurate the 2006 Sori projections were :).

To those who don't get the issue with big market owners over-spending, here is my take on it. Baseball is a sport -it is supposed to be entertainment. I care about the game on the field, the individual stories that develop season to season. It is eternally boring to me to see the free agent sweepstakes every winter, and teams made through free agency. It kills the season to season continuity that I enjoyed when I first became a fan as a kid. Call me old-fashioned, but I like the idea of a TEAM, a group of players that actually grows together and improves, that I can follow as they develop.

[greenbaydude1232]

I wouldn't be against a wuertz/pie for jennings trade. Soriano is locked in for so long that he could move to center at some point even if he doesnt play center immediatlely. I think we would need cash considerations or something from colorado as well. I still think the premier option is a package of jones/cotts/cedeno to cle for westbrook.

[Bonatom]

SIDE NOTE:
The Mets will sign Zito for a rediculous amount of time and $$. Why?!?! B/c they have too... If Glavine doesn't come back, they are screwed. Plus they have a TON of extra money freed up now, b/c they lost the D-Mat bidding. And Boras knows that...

[greenbaydude1232]

If zito sticks by his morals I don't seem him going to NYM...he has reportedly contacted both TEX and CHC and asked them to consider him.

[Baseballfan79]

What about a trade of Pie to the fish now for Nolasco and something perhaps?

[bsox21]

I can write a whole thesis taht would statistically support building a team around Juan Pierre.

When a players hts 40 HRs, 40 Steals and 40 doubles with a 351 OBP, he's one of the best players in the league even with 150Ks.

[greenbaydude1232]

would rather have jennings than nolasco at this point. Any word on if the marlins would have any interest in pie and some other stuff for willis though?

[feelthebyrne]

Droptop:

Stonemans job is on the line of course hes gonna do wutever it takes to land a big bat. Andruw is the best bet cuz of his age n defense but manny is equally as good. either would suit us fine. Shields is expendable cuz we signed spier. And with the run support we would have i dnt think we would need our bullpen too much. I really dnt wanna see santana leave but if it means championship rings, then u really cant argue..

[bsox21]

46 Hrs with a .911 OPS in one of baseball's 3 worst hitter's parks and these morons say he cant hit cleanup?

If Sori can't hit cleanup, there are only about 3 "clean up hitter" oin all of baseball.

[bsox21]

Sori going back to 2B?

The Cubs need him more at 2B than OF.

[greenbaydude1232]

The cubs need him more in the OF...we don't have a CF and we just signed De Rosa to play 2b.

[bsox21]

With the winds in Chicago adn Sori playign CF for the first time, the Sori haters are going to have more stupid reasons to hate him.

This is much like the Michael Vick haters.

He take an offense of SCRUBS to within one game of the super bowl at 24 yrs old, and all the fucking media cn talk about is how he doesn't stand in the pocket and throw enough....

[phillyphenom]

Anytime vick has a good game the media goes crazy and says that he is the best player in the league so i dont know what you are talking about. He has about 3 good games a year and everyone jumps on his bandwagon, then he sucks and they all jump off.

[EM3]

When Boston fleeces the Angels for Santana, Shields and either Aybar or Wood for Ramirez, they can throw a nasty 6 man rotation out there, so as to transition Dice K to the bigs and to preserve Schill and Wake. Just think...

Curt Schilling
Jonathon Papelbon
Daisuke Matsusaka
Josh Beckett
Ervin Santana
Tim Wakefield

And we haven't even mentioned Jon Lester. And Daniel Bard/Clay Bucholtz in a year or two. Wow.

Of course, the bullpen still SUCKS. Please don't sign Joe Borowski. Please!

[GoBoSox420]

If we could deal mannny for Santana, Shields, and a pitching prospect, couldnt we then flip that prospect +hansen/delcarmn + Coco to ATL for Jones?

[tyler]

why are we talking about the redsox?

[allabouthephils]

Cubs fans must love this one. I just can't, for the life of me, understand how Alfonso Soriano got that sort of a deal. Hendry said, well i'm going to blow the other offers away by 40 million or so. I am happy the Phillies didn't shell out that type of money or those types of years. I would be more upset if they did. Does anyone know if the deal includes a no trade clause ? If it does, Hendry is the worst gm in baseball. He would come close to Ed Wade bad. But, if anyone was going to get that sort of contract, Soriano was that man. Congrats Cubs fans. I am scratching my head but congrats.

[EM3]

The Globe today threw out the Rockies and Rangers as a potential 3 way deal for Manny. The Globe didn't speculate on specifics, other than the obvious - that Todd Helton and Otsuka would be involved.

Just for the fun of it....

Boston gets: Helton, Otsuka, Young

Texas gets: Ramirez, Jennings, Pedroia

Colorado gets: J.Danks, D.Murphy, B.Moss,

Boston's lineup would be a little too left handed...

ss. lugo
2b. young
dh. ortiz
1b. helton
lf. pena
rf. drew
3b. youkilis
c. varitek

[EM3]

i forgot crisp. woops.

[allabouthephils]

Just like Red Sox and Yanks fans, making a Alfonso Soriano signing topic all about them... WHO CARES ???? You aren't winning the world series anyway. Go speculate on false trade rumors somewhere else. Your clogging up the space.

[bsox21]

You ignore the fact that Todd Helton wuold be nothing more than Sean Casey if he left Colorado. and he'd show the world that all his gaudy numbers with the Rockies were a sham.

He doesn't want that to happen, so he won't approve a deal anywhere.

Remember when the Mets had a deal to acquire Helton?

Helton had a choice between a clear playoff contender, or the Rockies. Money was the same in both, and if anything, playing in NY would be worth more for the exposure. There was only one problem....

He knew the world would realize he is vastly overrated.

[ScottBrosius]

Soriano isn't as good as Beltran. Beltran wasn't worth 17 million a year. Ergo, Soriano isn't worth 17 million a year, either.

That being said, he certainly makes the cubs better for at least the next three years. Who would have thought it, after that horrible playoff performance with the yankees in 2003?

[jballgame]

allaboutthephils-let me educate you since you can't read/research on your own. Deal is reported to be 8 yrs, 136$MM. No trade for first 4-5 yrs. Options on yrs 7 and 8. Basically works out to be 6/90 + 2 options and incentives. Sounds like a good deal to me. You're just "hating" b/c you didn't get him.

[jballgame]

Sorry-6/90s.

[bsox21]

It's a great deal.

Sori's 46 HRs is equivalent to 55 in some other major league parks.

Sori is 1000% bona fide beast.

These guys who say its a bad deal are clueless. They don't know one of the most basic principles of American Business....

The employEE is NEVER making more than the employeER.

Meaning, if they're willing to give this to Sori, you can bet your ass the owner is making a big multiple of that.

[desturbd1]

Wow that's an awful set of moves for Boston. Helton's 33 and making $17MM a year until 2011. That would have to be the most retarded way to get rid of Manny that I've ever seen proposed, anywhere. Meanwhile Young is a FA after this season, is 31 years old, and will probably command better then Miguel Tejada money.

Anyway I fail to understand why this was brought up on a CHC story. So moving on...I'd love to know the exact terms of the contract before I call Hendry a fucking moron. Though the length of the contract doesn't really matter if he's still got tons of money to spend like so many Cub fans seem to think he does. If he uses it to buy a solid starter or two, then this could be a good move...if only because it makes CHC relevant again in 2007.

Also I don't see anything about 6 years and 2 options. Got any links, or are you just relying on Chicago radio reports? Most of the articles simply say "8 year, $136MM" with no mention of options. So by my estimation, you've no real right to jump on anyone for assuming that the money's guaranteed.

[allabouthephils]

I just got off work... Sorry, I spent the last 18 hours negotiating contracts for two simultaneous mid level corporate mergers. I wanted to chime in with my two sense but I haven't the time nor energy to read every detail of every contract signing for major league baseball in the civilized world. But, thanks for being an ass about it. As far as being jealeous. You're right, I would love to have him. But, not at that price... Is it a players' option or a team option ??? Is it a full no trade or a partial ?? If it worked out to 6 @ 90 guaranteed, he wouldn't have accepted it. The Phils offered 6 @ 99 guaranteed and he declined. So, I don't think you're the best person for information. Thanks anyway

[nickjs21]

Don't bat Soriano leadoff, it's a waste. That bottom of the order won't be on base for him. Plus, you want a contact hitter batting first. Low OBP + high Ks, I would bat him somewhere else in the order. That's my only "hate" on Soriano.

And if Soriano DID move to 2B, the Cubs would be wise not to trade for Westbrook. He's a groundball pitcher. He'll pull his hair out by July with Soriano fielding behind him.

allaboutthephils, in case you haven't noticed, any topic on here will eventually deteriorate into talk of either the Cubs, one of the New Yorks, or Boston. Regardless of the original posting. That's just how it works. They're everywhere. It's the nature of the beast.

"You aren't winning the world series anyway." -- That's hard to speculate, isn't it? I will give you my savings account if you predicted
A) The Angels in 02
B) Florida in 03
C) Boston in 04
D) Chicago in 05
E) St. Louis in 06 (even when the postseason started)

"Go speculate on false trade rumors somewhere else."
I understand the name of the site is "MLB Trade Rumors" ...

As far as the "impurity" of building a contender by gartuitous overspending in the FA market, SiddFinch, you can pretty much trace it back to Wayne Huizenga and the 1997 Marlins and how they, as one book puts it, bought the World Series. I will admit, it's much more fun to see a homegrown team of youngsters grow together and have it all culminate with a World Series victory than see a team just shop for the highest prices on the markets and have a bunch of 30-somethings win with no team chemistry. But I'm from a small market team. So I would say that (but even when Cleveland was mashing in the 90's, those guys were all homegrown).

I'm not speaking against this Cubs deal or anything, just saying.

[nickjs21]

Also, allaboutthephils, I find it odd that you're complaining about Red Sox speculation but still feel the need to let us all know what you did at work today ("I spent the last 18 hours negotiating contracts for two simultaneous mid level corporate mergers"), as if we asked. At least Boston is a baseball team. But OK.

[EM3]

I am totally against that trade i mentioned, by the way. Just felt the need to post it as it was speculated by a major newspaper.

I brought up Manny because this Soriano thing has put Manny front and center for all the teams that lost out on Soriano. Each move has an affect on another move, sons. Stop hating. It's hot stove season. Have fun with it!!!!!!!

[EM3]

PS: Allaboutthephils: That was kind of wierd that you brought up what you did today at work. Relax, man. Fire up a beer or seven.

[feelthebyrne]

Haha that rangers/sox/rockies trade is funny. Helton young and otsuka to sox and manny n others to rangers and rockies gettin nothin. Manny in texas is too much i think we would see bonds's hr record be demolished!

[NYs Maine Man]

I love Hot Stove baseball. It's great.

Soriano is going to lead off and play CF I heard? Interesting call, CF may be too much to expect. But with a lineup including Soriano, Derek Lee, and Aramis Ramirez, should be interesting. Now, about the pitching...

Zambrano, Prior (if healthy), Cotts, etc. Still needs a tad of work, but I am sure big Lou is happy.

[bsox21]

MaineMan,

Don't forget Rich Hill.

We might a Erik Bedard-ish breakout from Hill in 2007.

Inconsistency, with stretches of dominance mixed in.

[EM3]

Feelthebyrne: Colorado's incentive is to get out from that awful 11 year contract they foolishly gave to Helton in 2000.

But enough about that trade. It's not gonna happen. Although it looks like Texas is SERIOUS about Manny. I wonder what they'd offer.

Back to the Cubs....Do you guys still think they're in on Zito? I really hope Schmidt signs somewhere soon so that a VICIOUS bidding war ensues over the overrated Zito between both NY teams, the Cubs, Angels, Rangers, Phils and maybe even the Blue Jays. Zito may be able to rake in $17M, too! Ha.

[bsox21]

The key to Zito's value is the Braves.

If the Braves decide to take Glavine, Zito will mean more to the Mets than any other ball club.

[desturbd1]

Agreed, EM3. I feel like if the Cubs have all the payroll flexibility people keep saying they have, Zito may well be an option. But I think it would be easier to get Schmidt. And given the longterm committment the Cubs just made to Sori, Schmidt's shorter contract may be more appealing; I could see them going after him harder then they do Zito.

But I'm a Boston fan...I don't really know what the Chicago press is saying. This just seems like the most rational thing to do. Also, if the Braves take Glavine, the Mets will definately do whatever it takes to sign Zito. But I'm not convinced they aren't already doing that anyway; with Glavine they'd have 1 SP who they can feel sort of confident would give them 200 innings. And that's a major issue.

[EM3]

Very true, bsox21.

But I think that even if Glavine returns to the Mets, the Mets still NEED Zito. Who is going to give them innings on that staff?

[bravesbeast]

the braves should not pay glavine more than eight million, but i think it would be classy to give a no trade clause, but thanks for getting soriano, cause that just means a bigger return for the braves if andruw must be traded

[shanecollison]

first off....everyone who is dissin' on the aquisition of sori is seriously jealous. i speak the truth. my real point here is to speculate on the earlier rumor that we are still going after j.d. drew and that zito wants to play for the cubs. that is freakin sick. i don't know what to think about that. i know it probably won't happen but it's always a good thing to dream.

[bravesbeast]

good grief hell if yall are going after jd that aint a bad idea cause that is a lefthanded power source in a stacked lineup, but i think the cubs wind up with zito, excuse me target zito more than drew, and they wind up with dave roberts and someone like padilla or meche

[Tak]

I think we need to all start getting used to the new price tags people will be getting every year. Remember ECON101, price = supply / demand, supply of good players has not increased much (maybe even decreasing), while demand has risen considerably since every team has more money to spend. Soriano's price seems very high, but this also probably means there were other teams offering him prices nearly as high, so the Cubs had to "outbid" their competition because they were in desperate need of a "good" bat. (I am not going to go argue about how valuable he actually is, I will let you guys do that :P ) To make things simple, if every team had twice the money to spend with exact same players available, you would probably end up with every player receiving something close to double the salary. (yeah it will not be exactly double due to numerous reasons, but you get my point) Does that make every player "overpaid"? No. That is what they are worth.

In terms of the length of the contract, you also have to think about the above, if teams are spending so much this year, how are things going to be in 5-10 years time? Maybe 17m/y for a player like Soriano will become a bargain at the time, even if Soriano's performance declines. You also have to think about the supply of players in the future, maybe they figured it would be very hard to obtain new good bats in the future so they thought it was worth the risk to sign Sori to a long-term deal. Maybe they are not even considering keeping him for the entire duration of his contract, who knows. There are so many things you have to account for when making these decisions, and they are the experts (or you hope), not us.

[shanecollison]

I think you made a great point Tak. In 5-6 years, the way the market is soaring, soriano's deal might seem like a bargain.

[Kyle]

Okay i said that i was going to leave this post alone and just wait for a new one but i guess that i can't.

Greenbaydude- Just to respond about your comments about the last post that i had. It is not that i don't like Pie but here is what i see. We are putting together a great team for once but one big need for us is CF. So we have all these prospects that we are just sitting on and don't want to get rid of any of them. Well the thing is if we need a centerfielder now then then use Pie as trade bait. There has been numerous teams that have expressed an interest in him so use him. The way that i look at it is there are a lot of guys that will probably be ready for the big leagues here in the next three years. But the issue i have is Pie has been in the minors for a while now and he is still not ready. When is he going to be ready? If he is not going to be ready then trade him now for a player that is more then ready and then worry about that position in three years. We are going to hold some of these minor leaguers for to lon and then we are going to find out that they will never be ready and then we wasted all these years that we have the talent but was lacking in one area that we could have filled. I mean Hendry is doing a pretty good job right now on getting some much needed players. Use a couple of the Minor guys to get the rest of the needed players cause if we can't do nothing with the team that we are putting together now then we are going to have problems for a while. I still stand with i think the most ready players to come to the Majors are Theriot, Moore, Patterson and all the pitching staff that we have that have shown that they are ready but just need some big league experience. And i will also give you Veal to that list. Lets do what we have to now and get that team that everyone wants.

Michael Barret issue- Why does everyone want to see Barret leave. First this is just my belief but i think that Barret loves playing for the cubs. He was greatful to come over to the cubs and i really feel that he will be willing to give them the home town discount to stay when that time comes. Plus he is one of the better hitting catchers in the MLB. Okay so you say look at him behind the plate. Well a couple of things there. Look at the pitchers that he has had to catch for. Look at the team that he has had to play with. If the pitcher didn't throw a wild ball the ball would never pass him. If the pitcher or players didn't make a bad play then he would never have to throw a runner out. But over all if you look at what he has done i think that he has done pretty well. Lets keep Barret and i think that he will make us proud that we did. If we wanna trade some one then use the parts that we have a abundance of. Like relief pitching and maybe a outfielder or something. We have numerous minor leaguers that would probably look great to other teams.

I think so far that Hendry and the cubs organization has made it pretty clear that they were not joking when they said they are serious about bringing some talent to the cubs. Why does everyone think they know what the payroll will be. It has never been announced what it will be and everyone is going off rumors. I personally don't think the cubs are done getting people yet and yes that means that they will be over the 120 million that everyone thinks they will be at. The Tribune might be talking about getting rid of some of its parts but the cubs are the most profitiable thing they have so why would they get rid of them? Plus if they make it to the play offs or a WS then they only make more moeny off them and all the pay raises don't mean much. How you think the Yankees do it.

I am a die hard Cubs fan and i can honestly say this is the first time that i have seen them this agressive and it is sorta nice. i think that everyone is going to be suprised on the moves to come here in the near future and i look forward to them. Lets remember that Hendry is not going to over look some of the clubs needs and he has other things in the works that we don't know about yet and i think that we will see them soon.

Just my impression but i think that you will see a another good fielder yet and at least one of the top pitching FA come our way and any other moves will be done by trade.

[feelthebyrne]

Haha yea the angels have been interested in manny for quite some time now n i think the angels hav more to offer but id rather play at arlington cuz its the best hitters ballpark in the league.

[bsox21]

EM3,

I agre that the Mets could use Zito, but I think it would be in a similar way that most teams in baseball could use a guy like Zito.

If we lose Glavine though, it puts a new emphasis on need.

If the Mets lose Glavine AND Zito, the minor league system would be raped of at least 2 great prospects.

A testament to Omar Minaya is that in numerous blogs, you have people saying teams are after Carlos Gomez, Fenando Martinez, Milledge, Humber, Pelfrey......

Half these guys would be gone already if not for Omar, and the other half would have never been Mets in the first place.

[nickjs21]

I'm not going to pretend I know a lot about Pie. I don't follow the Cubs all that much. But I do know that Pie will be, what, 22 next year? "Pie has been in the minors for a while now and he is still not ready. When is he going to be ready?"
If he's at AAA at 22 next year, he's likely going to be younger than most of the people he's playing with. I'm not entirely sure you're correct with the "been in the minors for a while" comment.

It's my understanding that his season ended early in 2005 because of a bone bruise in his ankle, which is something that takes time to come back from. So if you think about it, the fact that he's even on a regular pace to the majors is an accomplishment.

He had a pretty good 06 campaign (http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/app/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Felix%20Pie&pos=OF&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=429712), although his plate discipline could use work. It seems his power is still somewhat raw, and 17 steals are nice, but getting caught 11 times isn't. Overall, however, I like him. Remember, this is a full starting season at AAA at the age of 21.

[roterdrache]

From what I am hearing from Chicago radio is that Soriano's DEAL is actually 6 YEARS FOR $90-95 MILL with 2 options yrs that would take the total value of the contract up towards $136, IF the options are pick. As of right now, Soriano's contract is actually 6 YEARS guarantee for $90-95 mill. This is being reported by a several radio report in Chicago. (Kaplan, The Score, etc, etc)

[gadamer]

The Cubs have now built a solid offensive line-up (though they should go after Matthews for CF), and now they must concentrate on their rotation. But some of you either don't follow the Cubs closely, or you don't pay much attention when you do. First, Wade Miller actually had a very nice end to the year, and remember, he was a terrific pitcher in Houston before his injury. I expect him to be a fourth or fifth started next year. Second, Rich Hill, a young lefty, has a devastating curve ball, and now that he has learned to mix his pitches up, he reminds me of a young Zito. I project him as a fourth or fifth starter. Third, Sean Marshall, another young lefty, ended the season well last year, and has a good chance to make the rotation, as does Prior, if he is healthy. That means they need maybe two starters, neither of whom needs to be an ace, just two solid pitchers who put the ball in play and eat innings. Ohka might fill this bill well, as might Suppan, Meche, or Wolf. Westbrook might be a good trade, if he can be gotten for Jones, Eyre, and a prospect like Cedano. But all this means that the Cubs can build a rotation with less than 20 mil., and have money left for Matthews and a bench bat (which all good teams need). And don't sleep on the pick up of Cotts: mark my words, he is either going to be a dominate set up man, or he will enter the rotation, which he did for the Sox's a couple years back. I strongly believe with Pinella at the helm, the Cubs will contend for the Central next year, and they have the potential to do the unthinkable: make the Series. Yes, crazy to make such predictions now, but I am very impressed with what has transpired so far.